20 June

‘Because of winter’. That’s the excuse that the lazy man uses to avoid getting up and tending his land. His priority is to dwell in present and short-lived comfort instead of proactively completing each day’s task in order to reap the benefits in the coming season. I found myself replacing the first half of this verse with ‘lazy Sherin would not awake early in the morning to pray because of winter’. Winter has just set in and oftentimes I’ve told God in the morning (yeah, I’ll wake up at my alarm and still give an excuse), “Lord, PLEASE, it’s too cold to get out of bed and pray right now” *sigh*

Laziness is a vice that robs us of tomorrow’s blessing in exchange for a fleeting gratification. Laziness blindsides us of our potential and purpose.

What is an activity, privilege or indulgence in your life right now that promotes procrastination and idleness?

God has created each of us to be fruitful in all that is given to us. Are you a student? Study hard, with all your heart, as studying for the Lord. Are you an employee? Work hard, with all your heart, as working for the Lord. Are you a parent or house-spouse? Clean, cook, wash, care with all your heart, as cleaning, cooking, washing and caring for the Lord.

Dear Heavenly Father,

thank You for the gift of time and for ordaining each of us with a purpose. Thank You for Your grace and for each passing breath. Lord, I’m sorry for the times I’ve complained, for the times I’ve chosen to indulge instead of persisting. I’m sorry for the times I’ve chosen physical comfort instead of sitting in the comfort found in Your amazing presence. When temptation to while away the hours rears its ugly head, remind me of how hard You worked when You stepped into the world in the very flesh and blood that we are encased. Jesus, You woke up when it was still dark – before the sun rose, the Son of God arose to spend time with the Father – Lord cause this truth to quicken my strength when my flesh and mind search for an excuse.

Lord, show us what needs to be done, open our eyes and guide our surrendered hands and feet.

I want to be spent for Your glory, just like Jesus.

Love You Lord.